Truffles Burger Bar returns to Downtown Cornwall

By Kevin Lajoie

June 15, 2012

CORNWALL, ON – The arrival of summer means the return of the famous backyard barbecue staple, the burger. They’re a common sight on most backyard grills, but few – if any – could compare to the ones being offered up at Cornwall’s newest restaurant, Truffles Burger Bar.

This is not your father’s burger. Among the more exotic selections of burgers at Truffles, you’ll find alligator, kangaroo, camel and even llama. The menu also includes traditional beef burgers in addition to pork, chicken, salmon and vegetarian burgers.

The unique menu is only one part of the equation. The restaurant itself features a one-of-a-kind décor unlike any other restaurant in eastern Ontario, and it’s located in a beautifully-restored building in the heart of Downtown Cornwall.

The public will have its chance to see the impressive new digs at 155 Pitt Street at Truffles official opening on Thursday, June 21st.

Truffles owners Dominique Gilgen and Ahmad Mansori have plenty of reason to celebrate. The original restaurant – located at the southeast corner of Pitt and Second Streets – was destroyed by fire in December 2010, just a few months after its official opening. It was a devastating blow for the owners and for local foodies who had warmly embraced the new restaurant. Undaunted, Ms. Gilgen and Mr. Mansori quickly announced plans to reopen, and they set their sights on the former Freeman’s building on the east side of Pitt Street between First and Second Street.

“We’ve been working really hard towards reopening,” said Ms. Gilgen, who together with Mr. Mansori previously ran the popular Eight Zero Zero restaurant on Cumberland Street.

The new restaurant has seating for 105 people and a full bar, and it promises to feature the same type of laid-back atmosphere that made the original Truffles a big hit with the public. Ms. Gilgen said the restaurant will initially employ approximately 20 people.

The owners are pleased to be located in the heart of Downtown Cornwall, which is quickly becoming a dining destination.

“It’s a great walking street with family-owned restaurants,” said Ms. Gilgen. “All of the restaurants support one another.”

The return of Truffles was supported by the Heart of the City Community Improvement Plan, a City-run program that provides assistance to commercial property owners looking to improve their establishments.

“We’re pleased to welcome Truffles back to Downtown Cornwall,” said Mayor Bob Kilger. “It’s great to see another restaurant add to the wonderful mix of existing shops and eateries that make our Downtown a great place to be.”

Truffles Burger Bar will be open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 am to 12 am.

On June 26, Sarah Freemark from Ottawa's CTV Morning Live interviewed Ms. Gilgen and Chef Mansori. Click on the following links to view the videos: